Omegaman

Album: Ghost in the Machine (1981)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This apocalyptic song was written by The Police guitarist Andy Summers, who was inspired by the 1973 movie Soylent Green, starring Charlton Heston. In the film, poverty and climate change have let to food rationing, and a big corporation creates a foodstuff made by nefarious means. Summers used the idea behind the film as the basis for the break world the Omegaman inhabits. (More in our Andy Summers interview.)
  • Omega is the last letter in the Greek alphabet, and in a hierarchy represents the lowest member. Thus, while the alpha wolf is the leader, the omega wolf is at the bottom. The omega man feels he at this lower level.

Comments: 4

  • Sage from MichigSoylent Green had nothing to do with climate change.
  • David from UsaOmegaman means the last man. I don't think it's referring to hierarchy, but to the end of the world.
  • Mp from Australia I agree as I thought it was about the Charlton Heston movie Omega Man also. Should we seek a second opinion? :)
  • Jim from UsaI'm surprised by the "Soylent Green" (1973) reference since I figured it would be about "The Omega Man" (1971) if anything. Too obvious?

    Good track, either way. It gets you thinking about the future.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Robert DeLeo of Stone Temple Pilots

Robert DeLeo of Stone Temple PilotsSongwriter Interviews

Stone Temple Pilots bass player Robert DeLeo names the songs that have most connected with fans and tells the stories behind tracks from their Tiny Music album.

Trucking Songs That Were #1 Hits

Trucking Songs That Were #1 HitsSong Writing

The stories behind the biggest hit songs about trucking.

Producer Ron Nevison

Producer Ron NevisonSong Writing

Ron Nevison explains in very clear terms the Quadrophenia concept and how Heart staged their resurgence after being dropped by their record company.

Dexys (Kevin Rowland and Jim Paterson)

Dexys (Kevin Rowland and Jim Paterson)Songwriter Interviews

"Come On Eileen" was a colossal '80s hit, but the band - far more appreciated in their native UK than stateside - released just three albums before their split. Now, Dexys is back.

Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull

Ian Anderson of Jethro TullSongwriter Interviews

The flautist frontman talks about touring with Led Zeppelin, his contribution to "Hotel California", and how he may have done the first MTV Unplugged.

Hawksley Workman

Hawksley WorkmanSongwriter Interviews

One of Canada's most popular and eclectic performers, Hawksley tells stories about his oldest songs, his plentiful side projects, and the ways that he keeps his songwriting fresh.